Air sealing: Air sealing reduces air bypasses and air leakage that occurs through outer walls, ceilings, windows, doors, and floors. Draft Proofing seals gaps and cracks that allow warm or cool air to escape. A home without air sealing may experience increased heating and cooling costs, decreased energy efficiency, and poorer air quality as small cracks allow for the entry of pollen, dust, pests, humidity. Air sealing and draft proofing installations can be completed on any crack or space where air may pass through. Some of these spots include:

• Baseboards
• Sump pump lids
• Openings in attics
• Between un-insulated attics or basement
• Living areas of the house
• Tops of foundations
• Door frames
• Windows
• Water pipes
• Vents

Vapour barriers are typically polyethylene sheeting installed to restrict diffusion of moisture through walls, ceilings and floors. In cold climates insulations may not be enough to prevent heat from escaping – vapour barriers are designed to prevent air from escaping through or around the insulation. These barriers prevent deterioration of walls due to moisture and prevent mold formation. Vapour barriers are installed on the warm side of existing insulation (subject to accessibility).

How do I know if I need to install Air Barriers and/or Vapour Barriers?

• Do you have frost and ice forming on cold surfaces?
• Does your basement feel damp?
• Do you have places where dust seems to be collecting?
• Are there odours throughout your home?
• Do your windows fog?
• Is there wood rot or decay within your home?
• Are your pipes sweating?
• Are there places in your home where water leaks or is dripping?
• Is the paint in your home peeling, blistering or cracking?
• Is there any discolouration, staining, or texture changes throughout your home?